A manifesto for wellbeing

A Manifesto for Wellbeing

Excuse me while I go a bit abstract…The Australia Institute – a well known, progressive social research institute has put forward a Manifesto for Wellbeing – which outlines the basics – the things we as individuals, families and members of society need to be well.

Basically, we’re richer – on any scale about 3 times richer than our parents were. But are we any happier? I don’t think so – because money, just like in the song, doesn’t by love or happiness.

The Manifesto for Wellbeing goes into the things the Australia Institute and other people believe we need to be happy, to exist in a state of wellbeing. It may seem a bit abstract and fluffy, but have a read – its worth it. I encourage everyone to sign up.

The headings in the manifesto are:
1. Provide fulfilling work
2. Reclaim our time
3. Protect the environment
4. Rethink education
5. Invest in early childhood
6. Discourage materialism and promote responsible advertising
7. Build communities and relationships
8. A fairer society
9. Measure what matters

Towards a flourishing society

The question for Australia in the 21st century is not how we can become richer: it is how we can use our high standard of living to build a flourishing society—one devoted to improving our wellbeing rather than just expanding the economy.
Many Australians are anxious about declining moral standards. We worry that we have become too selfish, materialistic and superficial and long for a society built on mutual respect, self-restraint and generosity of spirit.